Gum Disease Treatment Washington, DC
Protecting More than Just Your Smile
Your smile and your health are two of your biggest assets, and gum disease directly affects both. In addition to making someone much more likely to experience tooth loss, studies reveal it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. We take it seriously at Dental Town DC, so if you notice red, tender, or bleeding gums, reach out today to book your appointment.
Why Choose Dental Town DC for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Comprehensive Gum Screening at Every Appointment
- Kind & Experienced Washington DC Dentist
- Dental Care That Works for Busy Individuals
Do I Have Gum Disease?
If any of the following sound familiar, then you may be dealing with gum disease:
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Gums pulling away from the teeth (receding gums)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in how teeth fit together when biting
- Increased tooth sensitivity
Scaling & Root Planing
Diagnosed early, gum disease can usually be managed with a deep cleaning. This involves removing the bacteria-filled plaque from around and below the gum line (scaling) before smoothing out the rough surfaces of the roots (root planing). This second step speeds up healing and makes it easier for the gums to firmly reattach to the teeth, giving them support and strength to stay in place.
Antibiotic Treatment
Gum disease bacteria primarily reside in the tiny spaces between your gums and teeth. While scaling and root planing can remove most of it, antibiotic therapy ensures that absolutely no harmful microbes are left behind. A medication called Arestin, which are small microspheres, will be secured within the pockets of the gums, where the infection originates. Over the course of two weeks, the microspheres will gradually release medication to kill bacteria and help treat the infection.